Re: Don't mention the War!

: : Does anyone know the origin of this phrase? It's being used regularly in the papers at the moment!

: "The Germans" episode of Fawlty Towers starring John Cleese. Cleese the hotel manager has been in hospital with concussion - he discharges himself and returns to the hotel. a group of Germans have come to stay and in his confusion, he keeps mentioning the war (mainly WWII).

: Basil Fawlty says to Polly in conspiritorial toens "Don't mention the war. I did it once but I think I got away with it" (which he delivers to his off-screen wife Connie Booth who plays the chambermaid who in effect runs the hotel)

: He returns to the dining room and the older German says "Please stop mentioning the war, you're upsetting the girl" (who is in tears)

: Fawlty says "You started it" and then the rebuff "No we didn't" from the German triggers the line

: wait for it

: "Yes you did - you invaded Poland" (cheers and applause!!!!)

:
: A remarkable series about a man on the edge. Like "Falling Down" with slapstick and humour.

That was the second-funniest episode. The best was "Gourmet Night," which may have been the funniest half-hour on television. Ever.